The Toyota Tercel has long been associated with the brand as its reliable, entry-level model. Like everything else that happened in the 80s, Toyota got a little crazy – let its hair down, just for a minute – and took this humble appliance and gave it a 4WD system. While I wasn’t old enough at the time to gauge consumer reactions, it’s clear that years later, many enthusiasts think this was a notable achievement. And now, you are starting to see clean, original wagons with the SR5 package and well-preserved cosmetics show up on major auction sites. However, finding one like this lifted 1986 model listed here on Facebook Marketplace is just as compelling, especially with those killer factory decals intact.
When Toyota introduced this model, it was not alone in the 4WD wagon category. Honda also dipped a toe in the all-weather wagon category, and while Subaru may be the GOAT of this space, there the Tercel and the Civic all-weather wagons were just infinitely cooler. Perhaps it’s because the Toyota came with a six-speed manual and those cool checkerboard cloth seats. Or maybe it was the optional inclinometer gauge pod that could sit on top of the dash. In the Honda’s case, it was the classic red paint scheme with the white-painted steel wheels that made it cool for me. Either way, these wagons had their own style and it was hard to resist if you enjoyed winter weather.
The Tercel shown here has gotten some tasty upgrades courtesy of an owner who clearly loves the idea of a go-anywhere wagon. It sports a 2-inch lift, aftermarket wheels and tires, and spacers that push the rollers out beyond the fenders. It’s a matter of subjective opinion whether you like that look or not, but to my mind’s eye, it works. The dashboard is lacking the optional inclinometer, and if I owned one of these rigs, I’d pay the $200 or so they’re getting on eBay for one. The seats appear to be in good shape, and most importantly, the Tercel sports the much-preferred manual gearbox. When 4WD is engaged, the transmission offers drivers an extra-low gear for traversing through slippery terrain.
I like this photo because it shows that the inner jams are rust-free, along with the rest of the exterior. It’s hard to say whether the decals are original or not, but at least they’re there. These were not powerful rigs, as the standard engine – a humble 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four – produced around 62 horsepower and 76 lb.-ft. of torque. However, the joy in owning one of these is not in going fast but in going where others can’t, especially in an underpowered Japanese wagon. You won’t embarrass every Jeep owner you meet, but you may very well surprise a few of them. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mitchell G. for the tip.
Like almost everything else they do, Toyota just did this right.
This is very cool!!
Sorry for the 2fer
This is very cool!! Nice Toyota!!
Nice to see this in the condition it’s in. You don’t see many these days as they were typically rode hard and put up wet as the saying goes. Most rusted into oblivion years ago. This car could be useful around here right now.
What’s the asking price? My phone won’t open links to Facebook.
Steve R
It’s listed at $7500, and is located in Daly City, CA.
NHDave, thank you for your response.
It’s not surprising it’s in the Bay Area, Daly City is one on the few places where cars sitting outside will rust due to exposure to the ocean fog.
Steve R
@Steve R: it’s called Carl. Carl the Fog.
I’d completely forgotten about this model! Could it be called it a “Japanese AMC”?
Meh, $7500 for a car with almost 200000 miles? Toyota or not you could be getting into a world of trouble.
Especially since there was that Tercel wagon on here a couple weeks ago in VT, or NH? with only 15,000 miles on it for a couple grand more.
As a kid, always thought the hatch looked like it had an ATM in it.
Was looking for one of these to replace my Volvo wagon as official expedition vehicle of AutoArcheologist. Couldn’t find one in good enough condition. High mileage on these isn’t a concern. I have several other Toyotas with over 300K miles and still running strong.
I was looking for something a little different, quirky but useful for all the tools and gear I need to run my business. I ended up with a Honda Element, in very good condition, 200,000 miles for $1200 .. and sold the Volvo for $3000. Winner!
here’s the Element – AWD too.
You aren’t by any chance in NC are you? That sign looks familiar.
Looks very cool….wonder how it’s lifted?? Could be very stressful on CVs,ball joints,etc. It’s not a 4Runner…
This looks really cool! I like any AWD wagon with nice tires under it. I know these aren’t meant to be driven fast but can’t imagine what those tall tires did to the acceleration. May make even mundane on ramp acceleration a challenge.
These were great cars! I had one from 1986 to 1994, in snowy upstate New York. Beware of rust!
This is a Deluxe which is why it doesn’t have the inclinometer or the cool seats which were part of the SR5 trim level.
The granny gear was Toyota being Toyota, trying to get the customer benefit of Subaru’s 2 speed transfer case (on GL- level models of the time) without the cost and complexity.
Yes, NOT an SR5.